DETERMINING FACTORS IN CHANGES OF MANGO PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION PATTERNS ON THE BRAZILIAN MARKET

Abstract

Mango culture in Brazil has gone through an expansion process when growth regulators, hydric stress and florescence management were employed. Another relevant factor involved changes in the produced varieties. However, the choice of mango varieties may be affected by production-linked factors, the fruit´s physiology and consumers. Current paper identifies the factors that caused changes in mango production and consumption patterns in Brazil, specifically with regard to fruit variety, coupled to the market´s future trends. A board of experts was employed as a methodology. Commercially-based changes in mango culture were motivated by the possibility of exporting the fruit. The producers adapted themselves to the requirements of the international market and opted for such varieties as the Tommy Atkins variety, with specific export characteristics, such as tolerance in handling and transport. Future trends indicate the stabilization of varieties, except the mango Palmer with high supply increase. Varieties Espada and Rosa are still demanded but they are restricted by cultural features and market niches.